Physical therapy of the patient with foot and ankle injuries sustained in combat

The rehabilitation of soldiers returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom after combat-related trauma poses significant challenges. Polytrauma from high-energy blasts are common and frequently associated with mangled extremities, axial fractures, and traumatic brain injuries. Current evidence in the physical therapy literature is scant for this population and an empiric approach is often used. This article highlights the challenges encountered and techniques used in the rehabilitation of soldiers with foot and ankle injuries sustained in recent combat operations.